Here's a brief look at what a wah pedal sounds like and how to manipulate the wah with your foot to get the classic sound. Named for its sound, the wah pedal sounds like "wah wah wah". You can't play Hendrix without it. It takes a little time and practice to be able to get the rhythm of rocking your foot against the rhythm of what you play with your hands down, but the practice is well worth the effort.